Christmas is a magical time in the Smoky Mountains, filled with enchanting light displays, festive events and activities, and cozy mountain cabins for your holiday escape. Crowds do pick up around Christmas week—especially near major attractions like Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas and the Gatlinburg Strip—so planning is key. Our blog covers where to stay, what to do, and how to avoid the crowds (if that's your style) to have a successful vacation in the Smokies.
The Smoky Mountains in December
December brings chilly weather, with daytime highs often in the 40s and 50s and nighttime temperatures dipping below freezing. Sometimes, though, highs reach the 70s, so we suggest checking the weather before your trip and packing accordingly.
Christmas is one of the busiest times of the year in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, so expect plenty of visitors. Streets and major attractions can get pretty crowded, and wait times and traffic can take longer than usual. Patience is key if any popular events/attractions are on your itinerary. Still, the festive spirit makes it worthwhile—Winterfest light displays, the Gatlinburg Christmas Parade, and Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas will leave you with stories you’ll share for years to come.
Where to Stay in the Smoky Mountains
Spend the holidays in the Smoky Mountains and book one of our cabins in Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge for Christmas! This is a popular week to book, so take advantage of the limited inventory while you can. From cozy vacation rentals small enough for a family of four to cabins large enough for multiple families or large groups, you’ll love your stay with Bear Tracts.
Gatlinburg Cabin Rentals for Christmas
Happily Ever After | 1 Bed | 1.5 Baths | 4 Guests
This Gatlinburg cabin rental is perfect for couples or a small family. Happily Ever After boasts a secluded location (but still minutes away from Pigeon Forge & Gatlinburg), a private hot tub and heated pool, and an outdoor firepit. Warm up by the fireplace after the day’s adventures, or curl up on the couch and watch your favorite Christmas movie. Whether you choose to explore the bustling downtown area or have a chill night in, Happily Ever After has everything you need for a memorable Christmas getaway.
Bear Splash Adventure | 6 Bedrooms | 6.5 Baths | 22 Guests
Located in Gatlinburg Falls Resort, Bear Splash Adventure is the ideal vacation cabin for large groups or those traveling with multiple family members. This luxury Gatlinburg cabin rental features 4,000 sq. feet of space, plenty of room for the youngins to play and the adults to mingle. The best part of the home is the incredible views of the Great Smoky Mountains right from the balcony. The cabin is just a mile from the Gatlinburg Parkway.
Pigeon Forge Cabin Rentals for Christmas
Cedar Splash | 2 Bedrooms | 2.5 Baths | 10 Guests
Enjoy an enchanting escape with a private cabin in Pigeon Forge for the holidays. Cedar Splash offers guests mountain views, a heated indoor pool and hot tub, and a game room, fun for adults and children! Sit around the fireplace while you open gifts or cook a delicious Christmas meal in the fully-equipped kitchen.
Lil’ Fantasy Hideaway | 1 Bedrooms | 1.5 Baths | 4 Guests
Little Fantasy Hideaway is ideal for a couple’s getaway or a small family. Tucked away in the woods, you’ll adore the panoramic views of the Smokies and the outdoor space that features a private hot tub. Head into town and enjoy all of Pigeon Forge’s Christmas events and activities, or stay in and enjoy the comforts of your little home-away-from-home.
Things to Do in the Smokies for Christmas
From classic Christmas events like Dollywood’s Smoky Mountain Christmas to the Great Smoky Christmas Arts & Crafts Show, there are plenty of events to keep you entertained. Stay up to date on all of the Christmas attractions in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge on our event page, and check out these holiday events below:
Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic: For more than 30 years, Gatlinburg’s Winter Magic has turned the city into a majestic display of lights. Take yourself on a self-guided tour and either walk around Gatlinburg or drive through to spot your favorite decorations and displays.
Lights Over Gatlinburg: Lights Over Gatlinburg is another Christmastime favorite. SkyPark transforms its grounds with thousands of Christmas lights, including lights that span the SkyBridge. There is even a 30-foot Christmas tree and photo ops for the family! Lights Over Gatlinburg is included in your SkyPark admission.
The Polar Express™ Train Ride: All aboard the Polar Express™! The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad will take you on a 1 ¼ journey to the North Pole and back. Sip on hot cocoa and snack on cookies while getting a live reading and musical performance of The Polar Express™ story. The train departs from Bryson City Depot, about a 1.5 drive from the Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge area.
Fantasy of Lights Christmas Parade: On December 5th, celebrate the 50th Annual Fantasy of the Lights Christmas Parade in Gatlinburg. This year’s parade features one of its most exciting lineups to date, including GRAMMY-nominated, multi-platinum artist Hunter Hayes as Grand Marshal. The parade route will run along the Parkway beginning at Baskins Creek Bypass.
Things to Do in Gatlinburg to Avoid the Christmas Crowd
If your goal is a Smoky Mountain Christmas vacation without the crowds, there are several activities in the area so you can explore without the long lines. Hike one of the many trails in the national park, spend quality time with family in your Gatlinburg vacation rental, or try to visit any of the major attractions during the early morning hours if possible.
1. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Slip away from the crowds by heading into the park for peaceful winter hikes like the Quiet Walkways, Porters Creek Trail, or the Sugarlands Valley Nature Trail. Early mornings are especially serene.
2. Tour the Scenic Overlooks
Drive up to places like the Gatlinburg Bypass or Foothills Parkway for stunning winter views without the congestion of downtown.
3. Enjoy Weekday Mornings at Local Attractions
If you want to visit places like Ober Mountain or the Aquarium, go right when they open on weekdays. You’ll avoid most of the holiday rush.
4. Visit Smaller Museums and Galleries
Skip the big-name attractions and stop by quieter spots like local history museums or boutique galleries for a low-key afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Christmas a good time to visit Gatlinburg?
Yes, the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge areas offer a special charm during the holiday season. The towns are covered in colorful lights, and several events are happening in and near the area, so you won’t ever get bored.
How crowded is Gatlinburg at Christmas?
Pack plenty of patience - Christmas is a very busy time of year in Gatlinburg! Expect longer wait times at popular attractions and restaurants.
How to dress for Gatlinburg in December?
The weather in Gatlinburg typically reaches highs of 40s and 50s in December. However, the weather likes to surprise us during this time of year, and sometimes we see temps in the 70s, so keep an eye out!
Will it snow in Gatlinburg in December?
The chance of snow in Gatlinburg in December is low, but possible. You’re more likely to see snow in Gatlinburg in January or February.